Given the recent school shootings and reported threats across the Kansas City metro area, I want to take a moment to address this deeply concerning issue. I want to reassure you that the safety and well-being of our students and staff remain our highest priority. I am also asking you to talk to your scholars about the seriousness of making threats.
Our school district takes any threat to the safety of our community very seriously. We have established clear protocols to address such threats, ensuring that each is thoroughly investigated by our staff, in cooperation with law enforcement.[MK1] Our priority is to provide a safe learning environment for all, and we want to emphasize that any behavior that threatens maintaining a safe learning environment will not be tolerated.
It is crucial to understand that our approach to handling threats is guided by strict board policies. Even if a threat is not substantiated, it will still be addressed with the utmost seriousness. The consequences for making threats, whether they are deemed credible or not, are in place to maintain a safe and respectful environment. These consequences are outlined in our district's board policies and are designed to deter any behavior that might compromise the safety of our students and staff.
We are committed to working closely with local law enforcement and other authorities to ensure that all necessary measures are taken to protect our community. Our focus remains on preventing any potential harm and responding swiftly to any situation that could pose a risk.
In the Center School District, we promote an environment where students, staff, and community members feel empowered to report anything that may appear suspicious. The Courage2Report site, is one way to confidentially share information with our leaders. For more information, please click here. If you are aware of an immediate danger, please call 911. You are always welcome to reach out to a building administrator to report an incident and/or concern.
We appreciate your support and cooperation in helping us maintain a safe and positive school environment. If you have any concerns or questions, please contact your child’s school or our district office.
Thank you for your attention to this important matter. Together, we can continue to provide a secure and supportive atmosphere for our students to thrive.
I have also included links to some of our school district’s discipline-related policies for your reference.
Regulation JG-R1: Student Discipline
Policy JFCG: Weapons in School
Sincerely,
Yolanda Cargil, Ed.D
Center School District Superintendent